December 6, 2002

Don't Be Caught off Guard When Holiday Thieves Strike
Survey Shows About Half of Americans Not Taking Simple Holiday Precautions

As you and your family are planning for a happy and safe holiday season this year, beware of those who are seeking new gifts at your expense, reminds the Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (PIIAI) and its member agencies.

A new independent consumer survey conducted for PIIAI's national affiliate, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (IIABA) finds that about one in 10 Americans (9.4 percent) have been robbed or burglarized during the holiday season. FBI crime statistics show that the month of December has the second-highest incidence rate for both robberies and motor-vehicle thefts. However, only about half of the consumers surveyed say they take such simple holiday safety precautions as breaking down or concealing the empty boxes that once held their brand new DVD player or children's toys. Instead, they place them on the curb in plain view for looming burglars to know what awaits them inside the home.

"During the holidays, everyone's social life seems to pick up speed, and the hectic season filled with giving, family, friends, and events tends to distract even the most cautious consumer," says Ken Wagler, PIIAI President. "Remember that anyone can be a victim of holiday theft, so it is important to be on guard at all times," Wagler advises.

"According to the survey, it appears that only half of the population is aware of the risks involved with tossing an empty box out on the curb. That figure is alarming," says Wagler. "Anyone can be susceptible to holiday thieves, especially when the boxes from new toys and electronics are easily visible at your home" he advises. After opening gifts, independent insurance agents remind consumers to break down all boxes into small pieces and discard them in trash bags that are not transparent. This will make it more difficult for thieves to determine what new items came into your home this season.

Home Burglaries

Homes are most often targeted during the holidays, particularly because owners are more likely to be away visiting relatives while their new, expensive gifts remain unattended inside.
Independent agents urge everyone to lock all doors and windows, even when leaving home for a short period of time. Furthermore, leave spare keys with a neighbor rather than hiding them outside. Burglars know exactly where to look for spare keys and are not fooled by fake rocks and other hiding places.

Auto Thefts & Break-Ins

Whether parked in your driveway or a mall parking lot, your automobile is one of the most common targets for thieves seeking expensive gifts during the holiday season.
Wagler and other independent agents urge everyone to bring gifts into the house overnight rather than leaving them in your car. When shopping, put all of your packages in the trunk before departing one parking lot and driving to another. Waiting until your next shopping destination allows others to see packages go into the trunk of your car and then you departing into the mall or store.

Watch Yourself!

IIABA's survey shows that about one in four Americans carry more cash and credit cards on them during the holiday season. Independent agents urge consumers to use a single credit card when holiday shopping rather than carrying several different credit cards or large amounts of cash. To have freedom of motion and clear visibility, do not overload yourself with packages when leaving a store-you cannot defend yourself with your arms full of bundles. Keep purses zipped and close to your body in your possession rather than leaving it in your shopping cart. Avoid walking alone and leave stores well before closing time for a more active parking lot.

Other Holiday Tips to Consider …

Party Host Liability

In many states, individuals and employers hosting holiday parties can be held liable when a guest or third party is injured in an accident related to alcohol consumption.

· Review your homeowners, renter's or comprehensive general liability (CGL) insurance policy to ensure you have adequate liability coverage in the event you are sued and found liable for the actions of a guest who drank at your home or business party.

Holiday Fires

'Tis the season for holiday fires-Christmas tree, candle and fireplace safety is essential.
· Buy the freshest tree possible and keep it in water at all times.
· Check for faulty electrical cords and plugs.
· Always blow out lit candles before leaving the house or going to bed.
· Never burn wrapping paper in a fireplace. Some slick papers may omit carcinogens when burned.

Get Covered or Check Your Coverages!

· Many renters have no insurance to cover their personal belongings in case of fire or theft. Get covered today!
· Existing homeowners or renters' insurance policies should be reviewed to ensure adequate and up-to-date coverage limits of your home or possessions.
· Valuable gifts such as jewelry, antiques and collectibles may not be covered under a standard homeowners or renters' insurance policy. It is often necessary to purchase an "endorsement" or separate coverage for these items.
· Conduct a home inventory after the holidays!

For additional safety tips about these and other holiday topics, visit www.ChooseIndependent.com.

"The holidays are a time of year when people need to be more alert and cautious than usual," says Wagler. "Thieves know that people are extremely busy and sometimes distracted during the holiday season and they prey on that. To be safe, make sure your homes, cars and families are alert, aware and less vulnerable to crime. You should also take care to eliminate risks that can cause accidents or loss," Wagler advises. Wagler also advises insurance consumers to review their policies to ensure adequate coverage on their homes and possessions, especially those acquired during the holiday season- updating your home inventory is a great way to use that new video recorder or digital camera!"

For assistance updating your insurance coverage for the upcoming holiday season, contact your local independent insurance agent, or visit www.ChooseIndependent.com to locate an agent near you.

The Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois is an association representing independent insurance agents throughout the state. PIIAI membership is comprised of 1,500 insurance agencies representing 12,000 licensed independent agents engaged in all facets of the insurance industry, including property, casualty, life and health. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. In addition to serving the professional needs of members, PIIAI works for the betterment of the insurance industry through legislative and consumer awareness programs. The PIIAI is headquartered in Springfield, Illinois. Visit PIIAI's consumer website at www.ChooseIndependent.com or agent website at www.piiai.org.
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